Question of the Week: Should districts record meetings?

Panelists and readers answered this question: Should local school districts record their meetings (on either audio or video)?
Ann Ross: Yes. I believe we all have a responsibility to stay current and informed about local government. Despite the expense, it should be a priority to be able to view ALL meetings among elected boards in San Benito County. CMAP is excellent. It’s impractical to believe that citizens are able to attend all monthly and semi-monthly meetings to remain fully briefed on all issues. The information lag creates constituent frustration when governing action is taken that later becomes controversial. Our two newspapers are fantastic.  Often though it’s inherent to review data and the detail of discussions taking place to educate oneself fully before forming an opinion. It’s time to stop hearing negative commentary from residents that don’t have the full story because they couldn’t stay up to date. 
Nants Foley: Are you kidding? Who is going to spend time watching that? If someone wants to know what goes on in the meeting, they should go to the meeting. Having said that, I don’t care if they record meetings, audio or video, as long as neither the school district nor the taxpayer picks up the cost. If it is paid for by union dues, more power to them. 
Cesar Flores: YES! This would add transparency to the district  and allow the community at large, who cannot attend the meetings, an opportunity to view the meeting and give them an opportunity to provide input on the issues. 
Keith Snow: Yes, they should televised. Just like all the other meetings. It should be open for the public and it allows the parents to be more informed as well as anyone else in the community. Also, it helps as a record for what is said. They cannot go back on their word. We need to be genuine to the people. The kids are the future, and this would help them to be more involved and aware. 
Ruth Erickson: Yes, when CMAP was first established, one of the things the public wanted to be televised were school board meetings along with other meetings such as school events, political meetings and community events. The cost would only be $5,000 per year, which is a very reasonable budget amount to let the community know how our local schools and students are doing.  
Debbie Cusic: Sunshine and Brown Act laws let transparency shine. Public servants should be proud and open of all steps of governance.